Why Olivia Miles is much more likely to win Rookie of the Year instead of Azzi Fudd

TL;DR

Olivia Miles is favored to win the WNBA Rookie of the Year award over Azzi Fudd due to her exceptional playmaking skills. The Minnesota Lynx have a strong history of producing Rookie of the Year winners.

Key points

Olivia Miles is a top playmaker in NCAA basketball.
Minnesota Lynx have the most Rookie of the Year winners in WNBA history.
Miles was drafted one pick after Azzi Fudd.

Minnesota LynxOlivia MilesAzzi Fudd

Why Olivia Miles is much more likely to win Rookie of the Year instead of Azzi Fudd originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

No team in the history of the WNBA has had more players go on to win the league's Rookie of the Year than the Minnesota Lynx.

Minnesota has been home to five players who were named the league's top rookie in their debut season -- most recently, Crystal Dangerfield in 2020, one season after Napheesa Collier won the honors.

But Olivia Miles, one of NCAA basketball's best playmakers, is uniquely positioned to be named top rookie in 2026 -- even after she went one pick behind Azzi Fudd, arguably college basketball's best shooter, in last month's WNBA draft.

MORE: Sabrina Ionescu headlines Liberty's injury report for season opener

The Lynx, WNBA finalists two seasons ago and owners of the league's best record in 2025, are entering something akin to a transitional season.

Collier is not expected to play before the All-Star break, and Minnesota lost several key contributors to free agency.

As such, Miles has been tipped by to win Rookie of the Year, because head coach Cheryl Reeves is going to entrust her with running the offense immediately -- starting Saturday night in the season opener against the .

Q&A

Why is Olivia Miles considered a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year?

Olivia Miles is recognized for her exceptional playmaking abilities, which set her apart as a top contender for the award.

What is the historical significance of the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA?

The Minnesota Lynx have produced the most Rookie of the Year winners in WNBA history, with five players achieving this honor.

How did Olivia Miles and Azzi Fudd rank in the WNBA draft?

Olivia Miles was selected one pick behind Azzi Fudd in the recent WNBA draft, highlighting their competitive talents.